Campers seeking outdoor accommodations near Laingsburg, Michigan can choose from several options within a 30-mile radius. Laingsburg sits at approximately 850 feet elevation in central Michigan, with camping season generally running April through October due to the region's cold winters and snow. The area features several inland lakes with variable water quality that affects swimming conditions throughout the summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ovid at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers productive fishing for specific species. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils," notes visitor Michael P., who adds it makes for a "good day excursion."
Geocaching adventures: Explore hidden caches throughout the park grounds during your stay. Jacob B. mentions Sleepy Hollow offers the "best hiking trails close to state capital" and includes "fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available."
Water activities: Bishop Lake Campground provides options for paddlers and swimmers. According to Debra B., "The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking."
What campers like
Private campsites: Campers appreciate the secluded nature of certain sites. At Holly Recreation Area, Zachary S. notes it "Actually feels like camping with all the trees, not lined up in a farmer's field. Lots of trails and great beach with a dog friendly area."
Clean facilities: Walnut Hills Family Campground maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. John S. describes "Very nice set up campsites. They are moderate size. Camefire pits are not secure to ground, are just rings, they are above ground."
Wildlife viewing: Natural habitats support various animal species. Stephanie H. from Holly Recreation Area shares, "We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," highlighting the educational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Some locations have drainage issues during heavy rain. Mike W. from Sleepy Hollow reported, "We go to sleepy hollow about every other year... This time, however, we could tell that the staff does not keep up on it as much. The firepit was surrounded by water, and our site (142) really only had dry space for one tent."
Electrical limitations: Cottonwood Campground offers electrical hookups but with some constraints. As Joey H. notes, "Our site was small and we were sitting very close to a not so nice set up, maybe a seasonal? The staff were all very friendly and their fireworks show was great and their store had reasonable prices."
Water quality concerns: Swimming conditions vary by location and season. At Walnut Hills, Tammy P. experienced challenging weather: "Poured down rained while setting up to the point we couldn't step outta our camper without being up past our knees in water!"
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Myers Lake Camping & Cabins offers family-friendly swimming areas. Jeff O. describes it as "a good mix between a rustic campground and a modern 'pack them in like sardines' campground. A lot of mature trees and shaded sites... great lake for swimming and fishing, arcade for rainy days and tons of other activities."
Playground facilities: Recreational areas for children exist at multiple locations. Jennifer H. notes Holly Recreation Area features "several playgrounds, bench swings, play fields and even a basketball court."
Special events: Campgrounds organize seasonal activities for younger visitors. At Taylor's Beach Campground, Samantha S. reports, "We took a chance coming out here to kick off the summer as a family and couldn't be more please with the staff and the grounds! So much for the family to do!"
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: RV campers should prepare for maneuvering difficulties at certain locations. According to Paula W. from Campgrounds R Us, "We were surprised at how small the roadway was. It was very narrow and a bit difficult to maneuver. The sites were plenty wide but not terribly deep."
Extension cord requirements: Electric hookups may require additional equipment. Nathan V. from Sleepy Hollow advises, "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas."
Water quality precautions: RVers should test water before filling tanks. Paula W. warns, "We drew water from the spigot and it was very discolored and one jug we put it in had red flakes in it. Make sure you use your water filter."
